Canadian Cop Shoplifts, Makes Threats and Assaults Civilian — Gets Three Year Suspension with Pay Plus Possible Promotions

This falls into the “bad cop, no doughnut” category. In Ottawa, they have a curious way of dealing with officers who commit crimes. Constable Alec Moraru has been reinstated after receiving three years suspension WITH pay after he (1) shoplifted, (2) threatened a civilian; and (3) assaulted a civilian. That’ll teach him.

The Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services reversed a decision to dismiss Moraru despite the fact that court had found him guilt of these crimes. Moraru stole cheese, chocolate and aftershave on Dec. 9, 2004 — in addition to the threats and assault.

The Commission not only wants him back protecting the good people of Ottawa, but they want him to be eligible for promotion each year for the next two years until he reaches first-class constable status. It found that his crimes were due to post-traumatic stress linked to the suicide of another officer.

I am sympathetic with the stress defense, particularly in a criminal sentencing hearing. However, committing crimes should remain something of a bright-line for peace officers. Ottawa recently made the news when it gave officers financial rewards for not using force in their jobs, click here. It worked. Taser uses went down sharply. Perhaps they should also implement a reward system to not committing criminal acts.

For the full story, click here.